​​31 Last-Minute Gift Ideas That Still Feel Thoughtful in 2025

Not every thoughtful gift takes weeks to plan. The right last-minute gift ideas still feel personal. Remember that meaning comes from intention, not time. People tend to value gifts that feel personal and useful more than ones that simply look impressive, says Live Science.

That’s probably why gift cards are the ultimate last-minute gift ideas. According to Digital Transactions, more than eight in ten people buy them, and nearly a third pick one up the same day they give it. They’re quick, flexible and surprisingly thoughtful when you choose one that fits how someone actually spends their time.

But not every last-minute gift has to be a gift card. With online shops like Amazon offering same-day delivery and endless inspiration, it’s easier than ever to find something that still feels personal — even if you’re cutting it close. From creative classes and foodie favorites to small DIY surprises, these last-minute gift ideas prove that a little thought can go a long way, no matter when you start.

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• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Him
• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Her
• Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Friends
• Thoughtful Last-Minute Birthday Gifts
• Last-Minute Homemade Gift Ideas

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Him

1. Mixology Classes

Looking for a last-minute gift idea for a best friend who’s also a budding bartender? Online mixology classes make it easy to send something fun and immediate. They’ll learn new techniques and recipes from real mixologists while mixing a favorite drink right at home.

It’s quick to gift digitally and instantly personal when you choose a class that matches their go-to cocktail.

2. Sunrise Alarm Clock

If you need a last-minute gift idea for someone who is definitely not a morning person, a sunrise alarm clock might just change that. Unlike traditional alarms, these slowly brighten to mimic natural sunlight, helping the body wake more gently and naturally.

It's the the gift of future good mornings.

3. Professional Kitchen Knife

If you’re looking for a last-minute birthday gift idea or holiday gift idea for a true home chef, a professional kitchen knife (or better yet, a kitchen knife set) is the way to go. Standard kitchen knives are fine for the average home cook, but they pale in comparison to a true chef’s knife. 

Even when bought at the eleventh hour, it feels intentional because it shows you know his passion runs deeper than takeout.

4. Ticket to a Getaway Vacation

Experience gifts are always memorable, and they work beautifully as last-minute gift ideas. A getaway vacation gives him something to look forward to — whether it’s ziplining in Hawaii or finally seeing Paris from a café table.

You can buy tickets now for future dates (which usually ensures a better deal anyway), making it a thoughtful gift even when time is short.

5. A New Language

Finding last-minute gifts for people who have everything can be tricky, but here’s one thing he might not have: a second language. A language-learning program like Rosetta Stone is a particularly useful gift for someone who intends to travel in the future or who has a passion for a different culture. 

It's a great last-minute gift idea to pair with the gift of travel, although it holds up on its own as well. Bonus: Studies in the National Library of Medicine suggest that learning a second language can even improve cognitive function. So you'll also be helping him on that level, too. 

6. Wine Tasting

It’s no secret that wine tastings make great last-minute gifts for wine lovers — but they’re also one of those last-minute gift ideas that still feel refined. If he’s the type to compare cabernet to malbec or analyze tannins with a single sniff, this one will hit the mark. Pair a virtual wine tasting with the wine he’ll need and a small charcuterie board, and you’ve turned a quick gift into an experience worth savoring.

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Her

7. Paint and Sip for Wine Lovers

If you have a creative wine lover in your life, a paint and sip near you is sure to be a great last-minute gift idea. Your friend or family member can paint a gorgeous picture while enjoying a great glass of wine.

With the popularity of paint and sips, you can find one almost anywhere. You can paint and sip in Colorado Springs, Houston, Chicago and many other cities across the country. If you can’t find a paint and sip near you, sign up for online painting classes.

Whether it’s a local event or an online session, this is one of those last-minute gift ideas that still feels like you planned it weeks ahead. Pair it with their favorite bottle of wine to really satisfy them. 

8. Pottery Classes for Crafters

Got an artist who’s always wanted to try the wheel? Pottery classes turn curiosity into keepsakes. She can make her own mugs, vases or candle holders — all while learning a skill that feels timeless and grounding.

With pottery classes in Boston, San Diego, San Francisco and plenty of online options, it’s an easy last-minute gift that feels intentional, creative and totally personal. 

9. Curated Gift Box

If you love the idea of a cool gift set, but nothing quite suits your giftee, why not make your own? Gather small, meaningful things — candles, mugs, chocolates, tea, maybe a self-care mask — and package them beautifully.

It’s quick, it’s flexible, and it shows effort even if you’re short on time. Go themed if you like — “spa night,” “artist essentials,” or “cozy weekend” all work perfectly.

10. Arts and Crafts Subscription Box

As a gift for artists, an arts and crafts subscription box delivers fresh inspiration every month. It’s one of those last-minute gift ideas that keeps giving. They're easy to order last-minute but designed to delight long after.

Each box includes materials, ideas and guidance for new projects, making it a thoughtful, creative gift for crafters that arrives right on schedule.

11. Dance Classes for People With Rhythm

For last-minute gift ideas for the friend who’s always dancing but never taken a class, dance lessons will do the job. Whether it’s salsa, swing or ballroom, it’s an experience that feels spontaneous yet meaningful.

Book online dance classes for shy beginners or surprise her with dance classes in Las Vegas, the Bay Area or Los Angeles. It’s the kind of gift that moves you — literally. It's a really good option as a gift for couples, too, and you can cross two people off your list with one gift.

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Friends

12. Fun Virtual Game Nights

When time’s short but connection matters, a virtual game night is the kind of last-minute gift that feels anything but rushed. It’s simple to set up, instantly fun and perfect for long-distance friends or group hangouts when you can’t meet in person. From virtual scavenger hunts to online trivia games or virtual escape rooms, it’s a quick way to turn “sorry I forgot” into “let’s do this together.”

13. We’re Not Really Strangers Card Game

For a friend or partner you’d like to get to know better, We’re Not Really Strangers is the game that delivers. It contains questions that are designed to spark real conversation and help the players bond and grow closer.

It’s super unique and fairly new, so even people who love games likely don’t have it yet. It’s also a great activity to try while you’re already gathered for a birthday or holiday.

14. Streaming Service Subscription

If your friend has a growing “to-watch” list, a streaming subscription makes a perfectly timed surprise. It’s fast to purchase and even faster to enjoy — just pick their platform.

There’s Shudder for horror fans, Crunchyroll for anime lovers or Disney++ for families. A few months of streaming is a simple way to give comfort and entertainment without waiting on delivery.

15. Virtual Cameo Message

When time’s running out, a personalized Cameo message is a clever fix that feels one-of-a-kind. Choose from a list of celebrities, and they’ll record a short, custom message for your friend — heartfelt or hilarious, your choice.

Many cost less than $50, and they’re delivered straight to their inbox, making this a truly last-minute gift that lands perfectly on time.

16. Tickets to an Art Installation

For the friend who values experiences over things, tickets to an art installation make an unforgettable last-minute gift. If there’s one that your loved one has had their eye on, why not buy them a ticket to go see it?

You can purchase tickets online, send the confirmation instantly, and give them something to look forward to. Add a second ticket so they can bring a friend — or join them yourself for an experience that’s both thoughtful and spontaneous.

17. Foodie Dice

Rolling the dice on dinner just got fun. Foodie dice combine chance and creativity for a gift for foodies that helps them decide what to cook next — one roll at a time. Some results might be silly or unexpected, but that’s part of the fun.

It’s a small, playful gift that ships quickly and turns mealtime indecision into an adventure, no recipe book required. 

Thoughtful Last-Minute Birthday Gifts

18. Cooking Classes

Support your favorite foodie by gifting them cooking classes near you. When you’re short on time but still want something special, these make the perfect last-minute fix — easy to book online and instantly confirmed. From sushi rolling and pasta making to Mediterranean or Indian street food, there’s a class for every palate and skill level.

They can join cooking classes in Houston, Los Angeles, or Washington, D.C. For homebodies, online cooking classes bring the experience right to their kitchen. If you’re unsure which class they’d love most, a cooking class gift card lets them choose their own menu — and maybe share the results with you.

19. Specialized Cookbook 

Many people have forgotten the value of a good cookbook now that recipes are just a search away. But a well-chosen title still feels personal — and it arrives fast, which makes it a great last-minute gift idea.

Pick something that suits their style, like Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat for home cooks who love to experiment, Half Baked Harvest for comfort-food enthusiasts, or Ottolenghi Simple for anyone chasing fresh, Mediterranean flavors. The foodie in your life will get a whole new collection of meal ideas and inspiration — no shipping delay required.

20. Meal Subscription Kit

Meal subscription kits aren’t just for people who don’t like to cook — some are designed by professional chefs and packed with restaurant-quality recipes. HelloFresh, Blue Apron and EveryPlate all make it easy to whip up impressive meals with pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step guides.

It’s a thoughtful last-minute gift idea for busy parents or anyone short on time but still craving something homemade. You’re giving them a week off from planning — and a few new favorite recipes in the process.

21. Custom Framing

Framing is one of those things creative people always put off, which makes it a surprisingly thoughtful last-minute gift. It turns their favorite print, photo or artwork into something they can proudly hang in their home.

Most services like Framebridge or Simply Framed let you upload the image online, choose your mat and style, and have it delivered — no store trip, no hassle. It’s quick, personal and elevates their work instantly.

22. Edible Mushroom Growing Kit

For the foodie who’s tried everything, give them something to grow. A mushroom growing kit brings a bit of novelty to the kitchen and yields ingredients they can actually eat.

Even though mushrooms are delicious, they can also be pricy and difficult to find at standard grocery stores. A kit solves that problem. It’s fast to order, easy to use and fun to watch — proof that even last-minute gift ideas can have lasting flavor.

23. Artist Paint-by-Numbers

Paint-by-numbers isn’t just for kids anymore — and it’s one of those last-minute gift ideas that looks like you planned ahead. Adult paint-by-numbers kits are beautifully detailed, turning a simple afternoon project into something frame-worthy.

Choose from serene landscapes, abstract patterns or classic still lifes, all easy to order online and ship fast. It’s a creative, calming gift for anyone who loves art but doesn’t have time to start from a blank canvas.

24. Kindle e-Book Subscription

For the reader who finishes books faster than you can gift them, a Kindle Unlimited subscription is a digital lifesaver. It delivers thousands of titles instantly — no wrapping, no waiting.

It’s an easy, thoughtful last-minute gift that feels like a library card to the world.

25. Little Kitchen Helper Knife Set

What about the junior foodies in your life? A Little Kitchen Helper Knife Set gives kids a safe, confidence-boosting way to join in. It’s thoughtful, educational and available for quick delivery — a charming last-minute gift that grows with them.

Last-Minute Homemade Gift Ideas

26. My Family Cookbook

A blank cookbook can turn into the most personal gift of all. My Family Cookbook lets loved ones record recipes, memories, and family stories — no two ever look the same. It’s an easy, meaningful last-minute gift that feels handmade without needing glue or glitter.

You can fill in a few pages yourself before gifting it, or leave it blank for them to start their own tradition. Either way, it becomes a keepsake that only gets better with time. It's a great last-minute anniversary gift idea for parents who love to cook for their kids. 

27. A Custom Flower Arrangement

You can never go wrong with flowers, especially when you make them yourself. Take a quick virtual flower arranging class and create a custom bouquet that suits the occasion.

Even a store-bought bunch feels special when it’s rearranged with care. It’s one of those handmade last-minute gift ideas that looks anything but rushed — thoughtful, personal and easy to do in an afternoon.

28. DIY Custom Home Décor

When you’ve left gifting a little too late, handmade décor is the kind of fix that feels heartfelt. Think hand-painted signs, simple woodwork or even a candle poured at home.

If you’d rather learn than improvise, online classes in woodworking, glass blowing or pottery make the perfect foundation for a homemade gift — and you’ll pick up a skill for next time, too. You’ll be making perfect custom last-minute gift ideas in no time. 

29. Embroidery

Embroidery is an old-school craft at its most charming — a handmade way to say you care. Once you learn a few stitches, you can make napkins, handkerchiefs or small framed designs in just a day.

A quick online sewing class can get you started, and even the simplest patterns turn out beautifully. It’s a relaxing, handmade last-minute gift that always feels personal — and a skill that keeps giving.

30. Custom Ornaments 

When Christmas sneaks up, handmade ornaments are the easiest fix. Clear plastic ornaments can be filled with ribbon, photos, or tiny keepsakes — like a three-dimensional card that hangs on the tree.

You can make a few in an evening, wrap them in tissue and call it done. It’s festive, fast and personal — everything a last-minute handmade gift should be.

31. Personalized Shadow Box

So what do you give someone when you have no money? What about a shadow box? Shadow boxes are like 3-dimensional sketchbooks. They’re super easy to make and they’re incredibly thoughtful. Fill it with trinkets, photos or ticket stubs that capture a shared memory — from a trip, a concert, or a first date.

Finding last-minute gift ideas doesn’t have to mean settling. Between digital options, quick-shipping finds and creative experiences you can book in minutes, thoughtful gifts are still totally possible — even when the clock’s ticking.

Gift cards may be the easiest fallback, but with online classes, subscription kits and a little imagination, you can give something that actually feels personal. Whether it’s a pottery session, a virtual tasting or a handmade keepsake, the best last-minute gift ideas aren’t about timing — they’re about thought.

So, which of these last-minute gift ideas will you be giving to your loved ones? Regardless of your budget, there’s sure to be a perfect gift here for everyone on your list. Start shopping (or crafting) now!

For even more fun last-minute gift ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!